(Spencer)– Officials say it’s a wonder no one was seriously hurt Monday when two semi’s collided nearly head-on in the 1800 mile of Highway 18 in Clay county.
Authorities say 29-year-old Keith Thompson of Hartley was driving a 2006 Peterbilt eastbound when he crossed the center line due to a mechanical issue. A second semi, a 2000 Freightliner driven by 64-year-old Roger Wharton of Willmar, Minnesota, was westbound. Deputies say Wharton attempted to avoid a collision and was attempting to go into the north ditch when the two struck each other. The semi driven by Wharton came to rest on its side.
Damage to the 2006 Peterbilt driven by Thompson was put at $20,000, while the 2000 Freightliner driven by Wharton sustained an estimated $65,000 in damage.
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement, Fostoria Fire and Rescue and the Iowa D.O.T assisted on the scene.
The collision took place around 8:45 am.
